Chris: Loving husband to Timmarie. Fierce father to Addie and Brody. Loves Jesus, MMA fighting, Diet Coke and a good card game. His heart can be found in a pile of mush when holding Koleson or any other baby. He is also known as Addison's hero or Brody's wrestling partner.

Addison: 7 year old Jesus freak with more attitude than one could ever prepare for. She loves making up dances and teaching them to Alivia, asking for a sister, and second grade. This girl will mother anyone and anything. She also enjoys wearing mismatched earrings and did I mention asking for a sister?

Brody: 5 year old autistic phenom. Or at least we think so. He loves Disneyland, coffee, phonograms, animals, and the computer. He also enjoys taking everything you could possibly google about autism and blowing it right out of the water. Most endearing, he likes to cause trouble and then smile and hug his way out of it.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

I am on my last day of vacationing with family in Colorado. This trip has been really special to me. It's very low-key and ultra-relational. We just get together and do life. When I make my plans, a week always sounds like a long time to be away from home. But, today it feels like we just got here and it's time to go. We have spent time in family homes, had meals together and of course, eaten at Panera as many times as possible. I love that restaurant and we do not have one on the surface of the sun. We have had girl chats and watched our kids play and most of all, just had time to share about our lives.

I came here at a very needy time. I am feeling a little fragile in some family relationships. It is so refreshing to see my family, my friends, just step in where I need them. They anticipated my needs (read: Panera and some grown up time) and met me right where I am. I never felt as though I had to "act" a certain way. I feel free to help myself, make a mess, clean a mess, and discipline my children. I haven't felt any pressure to be who they want me to be. Just the freedom to be who I am and know that I am loved.

As I sit here typing this, I am listening to the thunder and the rain pouring down. I just finished up some time with the Lord and am enjoying the quiet of a house full of sleeping beauties. I came here needing relaxation and refreshment and I definitely have gotten to experience both.

Well, Koleson, you are one. Mommy tried to fight it as long as I could, but I couldn't get more than a year out of this first year. Funny how that works... It has been a blast watching you grow right before my eyes. You are a sweet boy who loves just about anyone who wants to interact with you. You are your father's child through and through in that when you are hungry, you want to eat rightthisverysecond. And I don't think a day passes without someone commenting on those beautiful blue eyes of yours. You have taught me to be a mama to 2 children and I will be forever grateful.

The Lord knows I love surprises. So, it is fitting that your first year has brought me many. These are a few of my favorites:

Finding out you were already growing just days after losing our health insurance :)

My water breaking at 32 weeks 5 days.

That you were almost delivered in a wheelchair because you were in such a hurry to get here.

Hearing your strong cry just hours after the doctor told me he did not expect your lungs to be mature.

You gained 3 pounds in your fourth month...pretty impressive for a preemie.

It took you 2 months on your hands and knees before you crawled.

I took you minutes to discover the freedom that crawling could offer you.

And since you have discovered cords...nothing will stand in your way.

I would have never guessed that big mischievous spirit was hiding inside that tiny body 1 year ago.

Koleson, your presence has made our life a hundred-fold richer. You have brought many smiles on days when frustrations were high. I am so glad you came into our family and made me a mom of a boy. I look forward to the adventure, son. I love you more than there are words.

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Happy Birthday, sweet one. It has been quite a year for you! I still remember the first time I held you, marveling at your tininess and knowing that you were just such a special boy. With your arrival, you have brought such fun into my life. You are just the sweetest thing.

You have given your mama such a pure joy. You are a reminder of the overwhelming kindness and love of our Savior, little one. It has been such a blessing to watch your mommy love and laugh with you. She is just head over heels for you. I don't think she can hardly stand how much she loves you!

And your sister...well, it's no surprise that she thinks you are fabulous. I love when she decides that you like something and your mama tries to intervene because she is doing something rather annoying. You already know to stick up for your sissy, as evidenced by you laughing and encouraging the behavior.

You, Koleson, are a reminder of what is good and lovely in a difficult world. You bring joy just by being you. You don't require anything, you just smile and love.

I can't wait to see how this next year unfolds in your life, little boy. You are simply spectacular.

Dareth. I am a girl journeying through this life trying to enjoy as many moments as possible. I desire to please God with my life on this earth while looking forward to heaven. I hope to enjoy as many vacations as possible along the way.
Alivia, 7 years old. She is kind-hearted and opinionated. She is a unique blend of rule-follower and boundary pusher. She is crafty and creative. She loves Jesus. She has a strong sense of justice. This girl makes my life bright.
Koleson, 3 years old. He is loving and affectionate and loves all things electronical. He takes his time doing things in his own time, but when he's ready, he tackles it full on. He loves his people and his church and asks to see them daily. This boy makes my life bright.